Abrim Tilmon (1945 – 1982) was an American singer, songwriter, and musician best known as a founding member of the Detroit-based soul group The Detroit Emeralds. Born in Little Rock, Arkansas, Tilmon, along with his brothers Ivory, Cleophus, and Raymond, formed the group in the 1960s. Their smooth harmonies and catchy melodies quickly gained attention, and they became a prominent act in the soul and R&B genres.
The Detroit Emeralds achieved significant success in the 1970s with hits such as “You Want It, You Got It,” “Baby Let Me Take You (In My Arms),” and their most iconic track, “Feel the Need in Me.” The latter became a major hit in the UK, reaching number 4 on the charts in 1973. The song’s enduring appeal led to its re-recording in 1977, further cementing its place in soul music history.
Tilmon’s connection to Annie Lennox comes through the song “Feel the Need,” which was featured as the B-side to Lennox’s single “Cold.” This inclusion introduced Tilmon’s songwriting to a new audience, showcasing his influence on artists beyond the soul genre.
By the late 1970s, Abrim Tilmon was the last remaining original member of The Detroit Emeralds. Despite the group’s waning popularity in the United States, their music continued to resonate internationally. Tragically, Tilmon passed away in 1982 at the age of 37 due to a heart attack, leaving behind a legacy of timeless soul music.
